'Sombre day'- School and ETB react to Clones tragedy
Two dead, two more still in critical conditions in hospital.
The principal of Largy College in Clones, where two young girls who died following a crash on Monday evening were pupils, says locals are in "deep shock" at the loss of "two cherished members of our school community".
Monday's crash occurred just outside Clones Town, and the young occupants were on their way attend their end of year debs.
Sharon Magennis, Principal of Largy College, said: “It is with profound sadness and grief that we have learned about the devastating accident that resulted in the untimely and tragic loss of two cherished members of our school community. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and friends who have tragically lost loved ones. The other individuals involved in the accident also remain in our thoughts and prayers at this time.”
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the emergency services and Gardaí who responded swiftly to the incident.
“Our priority now is the wellbeing and welfare of the students, parents and staff at this difficult time. The Largy College Critical Incident Team has met to coordinate a response and to enact the Critical Incident Plan.
“We are grateful to the public for their deeply felt expression of support and ask that we be given the time and space to concentrate on supporting those in the school community who are most in need.”
Dr Fiona McGrath, Chief Executive, CMETB added: “Today marks a sombre day for Largy College and the entire school community. On behalf of Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB), I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the students involved in this accident. CMETB will provide the support and resources needed to help the school community come to terms with their loss in the days and weeks ahead.”
Cllr. Carmel Brady, Chairperson of the CMETB Board meanwhile stated that news of the tragic accident has left the local community "deeply shake".
"On behalf of CMETB Board members I send our deepest sympathies to everyone impacted by this accident. Our thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. We share in their grief and extend our heartfelt condolences to them at this difficult time.”